The Scenic Route

01.
Maumee Bay State Park

Begin your trip at Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon where you can explore more than 1,300 acres of natural wonders on the shores of Lake Erie. Maumee Bay is full of lush marshes and scenic meadows making it the perfect destination for birding. A walk on the boardwalk will provide opportunities to enjoy interesting flora and fauna that utilize the marsh while evening or early morning beach walks often yield camera-worthy sunrises and sunsets. Additional activities include golfing the Scottish links-style course, camping, cycling, boating, fishing for walleye and more. You can end the day with a swim in the pool and a mouth-watering meal at the lodge.

02.
Lake Erie Islands

The possibilities are endless in the Lake Erie Islands. See exposed glacial grooves carved in the rock by glaciers thousands of years ago at Kelleys Island or stand in awe of the world’s largest geode at Crystal Cave in Put-in-Bay. Enjoy an amazing view of Lake Erie all the way to Canada from the top of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial at 352 feet or go parasailing for a real bird’s eye-view of the islands and sailboats. Paddlers will love kayaking around the islands with views of Cedar Point, towering rock formations and even shipwrecks!

03.
Geneva-on-the-Lake

Wine country meets an outdoor paradise in Geneva-on-the-Lake. Head out on a fishing charter from Oak Harbor and catch your dinner or get your adrenaline rush with a zipline adventure along the coast with Lake Erie Canopy Tours. Head downtown to the strip for some vintage fun with arcade games, amusement rides, mini golf, bumper boats, go-carts, restaurants and more. End the evening with a stroll on the beach or through the grapevines at Debonne Vinyeards.

04.Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Satisfy the outdoor lover in you at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Hike to Brandywine Falls, the park’s tallest, most famous waterfall for a photo-op. Browse artsy shops in the very New England-style town of Peninsula and rent bicycles to explore the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Catch a ride back on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or make some stops along the way to explore, including Hale Farm & Village. Watch for the new Boston Mill Visitor Center opening this year.

05.
Hocking Hills State Park

Your senses will come alive in Hocking Hills State Park! With sandstone rock formations, cliffs, caves, spectacular waterfalls and rugged hiking trails, this series of state parks and nature preserves will wow even the most well-traveled nature lover. Catch amazing views (fall foliage is awe-inspiring!) from the Conkles Hollow Rim Trail or snap the perfect photo in front of the towering Old Man's Cave. Try your hand at rock climbing, take the family ziplining through the treetops or enjoy a leisurely paddle down the Hocking River. Retire for the evening to your campsite, cabin or, for the glamping experience of a lifetime, a yurt at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls.

To the Moon and Back

This summer marks the 50th anniversary of Ohioan Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon – a milestone fueled by the dreams and bravery of John Glenn, the Wright Brothers, and many more. Experience the pioneering spirit of flight and the awe-inspiring vastness of space at hands-on museums, science centers and observatories honoring the innovation of men and women determined to go to the moon and back on this Ohio Road Trip.

Are We There Yet?

An Ohio Road Trip (or two!) is a great way to create unforgettable moments for families of all sizes and ages. Unleash your inner kid with thrilling rides at an amusement or water park, run with glee through the outdoors, revive your child-like curiosity at a museum or indulge in a sweet treat – all this and more awaits you for the family road trip of a lifetime!